Coincard BU 2 Euro Italy 2025 - Amerigo Vespucci

Description:

The inside of this commemorative coin pays tribute to the famous sailing ship Amerigo Vespucci, a true symbol of the Italian navy and a roving ambassador of Italy's naval and cultural know-how. The sailboat is depicted in full sail, evoking both the elegance of traditional navigation and the spirit of adventure. This training ship, launched in 1931, is world-renowned for its motto: "Non chi comincia ma quel che persevera" ("It's not the one who starts, but the one who perseveres").

The arched inscription at the top - "AMERIGO VESPUCCI TOUR MONDIALE 2023-2025" - recalls the exceptional voyage undertaken by the ship around the globe. This round-the-world voyage, which began in 2023, was much more than a simple maritime journey: it served as a floating showcase for Italian culture, training young cadets and strengthening diplomatic relations between Italy and the countries visited.

At the bottom of the coin are the year of issue "2025", the monogram "RI" for Repubblica Italiana, and the mint mark "R", emblem of the Mint of Rome, underlining the Italian origin of this numismatic issue.

History

The sailing ship Amerigo Vespucci is undoubtedly one of the world's most emblematic naval vessels, both in terms of its history and its majestic silhouette. Named after the Florentine navigator Amerigo Vespucci, whose first name was given to the American continent, this square-rigged three-master embodies the prestige of the Italian naval tradition.

Built in 1930 at the shipyards of Castellammare di Stabia, near Naples, and launched the following year, the Amerigo Vespucci is today the oldest training ship still in operation. With a length of 101 meters, her black hull is adorned with white stripes, and her vast sails are made of traditional canvas. Her design is inspired by the warships of the 19th century, particularly those of the Neapolitan navy. On board, every effort is made to teach young officers not only the technical skills of sailing, but also a deep respect for the sea and the values of discipline, endurance and solidarity.

The Vespucci is renowned for its elegance and beautiful finishes: varnished wood, polished brass, intricate rigging, all meticulously maintained by the crew and cadets. It is both a place of rigorous training and a floating embassy of Italy. At every port of call, the yacht arouses admiration and popular fervor, welcoming thousands of visitors curious to discover this living maritime monument.

Her circumnavigation of the globe from 2023 to 2025, an unprecedented event in the ship's recent history, represents a true symbol of intercultural dialogue. Crossing all oceans and calling on several continents, the Amerigo Vespucci has promoted Italy's image abroad, while offering young officers an exceptional training experience.

Considered by many to be the most beautiful ship in the world, the Amerigo Vespucci continues to inspire generations of sailors and maritime enthusiasts, embodying the meeting of tradition, excellence and openness to the world.

Diameter: 25.75 mm

Weight: 8.50 g

Print run: 10,000

Quality: BU

Available from May 23, 2025